Everything You Need to Know About the Wedding Hair Trial

Before you walk down the aisle with the hairstyle of your dreams, it's highly recommended that you test-run the look. Even if you think you have the perfect vision, it's not worth the risk of waiting until the day-of to make sure. A bridal hair trial gives you the opportunity to see the 'do that you're picturing come to life. It also allows you to get to know your stylist, if it isn't someone you've worked with before.

Book your appointment far enough in advance that you'll have time to reassess your choice if it doesn't live up to expectations, and find another professional if you aren't satisfied with the first. But don't schedule one too soon. Before you head to the salon, you should have a few things sorted out. It's in your best interest to have already picked your wedding dress, as the design might work with some hairstyles better than others. You should also have any hair accessories selected, both to test them out (like you're testing out the hairdo) and to make sure your stylist practices placing them. Know where you're getting married, and in what season. Whether you're tying the knot indoors or outdoors, in a humid or dry location, and more can play a role in your look, and may determine what products your stylist uses.

Once you've put a trial on your calendar, prepare in advance so that you get what you want out of it. Come with any questions or concerns you might have, and consider the following guidelines.

Before you even schedule the trial, plot out a healthy-hair routine leading up to the wedding (your stylist can help). Include everything from color and cuts to frizz-busting treatments.

Hairstyling is intricate. Prepare mood boards with looks you like and photos of your dress to provide a jumping-off point for your stylist, advises Shab Aghajani, a senior stylist at the Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa, in New York City.

Don't expect your hair to be washed and dried at the trial. Do it the night before so the stylist has an idea of your hair's natural texture.

If your style takes two hours, keep that in mind when allocating time on the big day. The consultant may move faster on the second go-round, but likely won't shave off an hour. And make sure she practices pinning on the veil—it could be her first time doing it.

"For updos and down 'dos, extensions add thickness and create a fuller look," says Aghajani. If you're a first-time user, discuss your options with the stylist by phone before the trial. Some salons will sell them to you; others may require you to purchase them elsewhere.

If you love the idea of cascading curls for the ceremony, but not the thought of droopy hair at the reception, consider a change-up for the party. Talk with your stylist about the time and cost factors of sticking around for a second 'do.

Planning a destination wedding and relying on local talent? It's still worth doing a trial back home, then writing down step-by-step instructions and taking pictures for the person re-creating the look.

If you're unhappy with the trial (it happens), resist the urge to throw up your hands and skulk out. Give the stylist another chance to fix the elements you don't like, right there on the spot. Should your visions still not match up, let her know that you're meeting with other pros and you'll be back in touch.